An Integrated Approach to Basin Analysis

By

Sevgi Tigrek¹, F. Beekman², E.C. Slob³, S.A.P.L. Cloetingh², J.T. Fokkema³

(1) Delft University of Technology_Free University,Amsterdam(Vrije Universiteit), Delft, Netherlands (2) Free University, Amsterdam (Vrije Universiteit), Amsterdam, Netherlands (3) Delft University of Technology, Netherlands

We present a methodology and the initial results of its application in the characterization of the processes involved in the development of sedimentary basins. The methodology combines the advanced seismic data analysis techniques and numerical basin modelling tools to resolve the basin (de)formation processes. The basin target horizon is represented in terms of its seismic properties, including reflection and transmission coefficients. The information on seismic properties is integrated with the information on the distribution of geomechanical parameters. The careful analysis of the integrated information should result in the quantification of the relation between the stress distribution within a basin and the seismic response.

The methodology consists of three phases. The first phase involves the conventional seismic data interpretation. In this research the data was gathered from the sedimentary basins of extensional tectonic settings and passive continental margins. The basins of the Norwegian Continental Margin and the North Sea were selected because of intensive hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation in these regions. After the conventional seismic data interpretation, some portions of the basin and the adjoining areas were investigated in detail. The selected portions were simplified and synthetic geological sections were constructed. The second phase involves the seismic modelling of the constructed cross-sections by comparing various ray tracing and finite difference modelling techniques. Both acoustic and elastic wave modelling were included. The synthetic seismic data were analysed by considering the established relationships between the seismic properties and the material parameters. The stress field and the deformations were predicted on the modelled cross-sections by using finite element modelling techniques. Travel-time and amplitude information from seismic modelling were used to improve the quantification of stress field-seismic response relation.